Wurlitzer-Bruck Music Antiquarians

Farinelli [Broschi], Carlo (1705-1782)

Fine Mezzotint Portrait.

1735. Decoratively matted in green suede with a total dimension of 17.75" h x 14.25" w; image size is 12.50" h x 8.50" w. Trimmed to just beyond the plate mark. One small abrasion in the background above the subject's head and one tiny pin prick well below the plate mark on the bottom, otherwise excellent.

One of the most important portraits of the famous castratto Carlo Broschi, known as Farinelli. Etched and engraved by Joseph Wagner (1706-1780) after Jacopo Amiconi (1675-1752). The portrait was executed in 1735, one year after Farinelli had arrived in London to join Porporra and Handel at the Opera of the Nobility and when he was at the height of his powers.

Amiconi was a personal friend of Farinelli and married to a soprano. Joseph Wagner was his pupil.